A conservatory creates additional space, more daylight, and a stronger connection to nature. Whether as a bright dining area, a quiet retreat, a plant room, or a full-fledged living space extension—when planned correctly, a conservatory not only increases living comfort but also the value of your property. At the same time, a conservatory is not a simple construction project. The type of construction, insulation standard, glazing, choice of materials, and building regulations have a decisive influence on costs, possible uses, and long-term success. This guide shows you what prices to expect, what types of conservatories are available, and what points you should clarify before construction.
How much does a conservatory cost in Switzerland?
The price range for conservatories is wide. The key factor is whether the conservatory will be used seasonally or year-round. The closer its use is to that of a heated living space, the higher the requirements for construction, energy efficiency, and technology—and, accordingly, the higher the costs.
Recommended prices by conservatory type
Cold conservatory/summer garden – approx. 32 m²
Cost range: approx. $40,000 to $55,000
This option is the most attractive in terms of price and is ideal as a sheltered outdoor area for spring and fall. As the conservatory is neither heated nor insulated, there are no energy requirements. The construction is lighter and designed primarily for weather protection – not for year-round use.
Partially insulated conservatory – approx. 32 m²
Cost range: approx. $45,000 to $60,000
A partially insulated conservatory can be used for much of the year. Moderate heating is possible, but not to the same level as a fully-fledged living space. Higher-quality glazing and more stable profiles provide better thermal insulation, but also increase the installation costs. In terms of price, this solution is significantly cheaper than a classic living space extension.
Heated conservatory (living conservatory) – approx. 32 m²
Cost range: around CHF 60,000 to 75,000
This design counts as an extension of the living space under building law. It requires a load-bearing foundation, comprehensive thermal insulation, triple glazing, and connection to heating and electricity. The investment costs are correspondingly higher, but the room is available all year round with maximum comfort.
Which cost items are included?
The price of a conservatory is made up of several components:
- Simple conservatory (15 m², without special features): approx. $17,000
- Heating system for a 15 m² conservatory: approx. $2,500
- Ventilation solutions (depending on design): approx. $2,000 to $3,000
- Foundation for a 15 m² conservatory ( , if necessary): approx. CHF 3,500 to 4,500
These individual items add up to the total price. Therefore, significant price differences between different quotes are completely normal and can usually be attributed to different features and construction methods.
Cost factors that are often underestimated
Many budget overruns arise not from the basic system, but from additional requirements:
- Snow load & statics: Regional snow load zones have a massive impact on profile thicknesses.
- Energy & operation: Heated conservatories require very good insulation, otherwise heating costs rise sharply.
- Shading: Without external sun protection, there is a risk of overheating in summer.
- Automation & control: Sensors, motors, and comfort functions increase the price.
- Accessibility: Terraces, slopes, or difficult installation situations increase the cost.
What type of sunroom is right for you?
Not every conservatory meets the same requirements. The decisive factor is how often and at what time of year you want to use the space.
Cold conservatory – the classic summergarden
Lightweight construction without thermal separation. Ideal for spending time in mild temperatures, as a plant room, or as a weather-protected seating area.
Advantages: inexpensive, lots of glass, quick to assemble
Limitations: hardly usable in winter, cannot be heated
Partially insulated conservatory – flexible in the transitionperiod
Better profiles and glazing, but no complete living space insulation. Usable from spring
to fall and on sunny winter days.
Advantages: good cost-benefit ratio, versatile
Limitations: not comfortable in cold weather without sun
Winter garden – fully-fledged additional livingspace
Heated, insulated, and usable all year round. Technically sophisticated, but offering maximum comfort. Advantages: genuine expansion of living space, high property value Restrictions: high costs, strict regulations
Location and orientation: crucial for comfort and energy efficiency
The position of the conservatory has a greater influence on temperature, light, and energy balance than any detail material.
- South-facing: maximum solar gains in winter
- East-facing: pleasant morning sun
- West-facing: lots of heat in the afternoon, high risk of overheating in summer
Storage masses such as stone or concrete floors are also important, as they absorb heat and
release it with a time delay.
If planned correctly, the conservatory can even serve as a heat buffer for adjacent living spaces.
Comparison of materials for conservatories
Aluminum
Very stable, durable, virtually maintenance-free. Ideal for large glass surfaces. Only suitable for heated conservatories with thermal breaks.
Wood
Natural, cozy, and very good insulation values. Particularly suitable for residential conservatories. Requires regular maintenance.
Wood-aluminum
Wood on the inside, aluminum on the outside. High quality, durable, minimal maintenance. More expensive, but technically and visually first-class.
Plastic
Inexpensive and easy to maintain, but limited stability. Suitable for smaller, unheated conservatories.
Steel
Extremely strong, but hardly any insulation and high maintenance. More suitable for summer gardens or special solutions.
Does a sunroom require a building permit?
Yes. In Switzerland, every conservatory requires a permit, regardless of size or design.
The following must be taken into account:
- Boundary distances (varies from municipality to municipality)
- Fire safetyregulations
- Energy legislation for heated conservatories
- Consent of co-owners in the case of condominiums
A heated conservatory is legally considered living space and is subject to stricter regulations.
Common mistakes in conservatory construction
These points particularly often lead to problems:
- Incorrect orientation without sun protection
- Unsuitable or overly simple glazing
- Lack of or insufficient ventilation
- No structural analysis
- Savings in profile quality
- Cheap systems without long-term suitability
Professional planning reliably prevents these mistakes.
Conclusion: A sunroom is worthwhile—with good planning
A conservatory can significantly improve your quality of life, bring more light into your home, and increase your living space. It is crucial that the design, use, orientation, and technology are all compatible with each other. If you decide early on whether you want a summer garden or a real living space, set a realistic budget, and work with experienced specialists, you will end up with a durable, comfortable, and value-adding additional room.
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